NORFOLK, VA- ODU honored its student athletes at the Big Blue BBQ after compiling an 18-18 season where they made the NCAA’s biggest turn-around in wins from five to 18 and fourth in won-lost differential at +10. The Monarchs finished sixth in their inaugural season in Conference USA, got a first round bye and advanced to the tournament quarterfinals. The Monarchs then advanced to the semifinals of the CBI (College Basketball Invitational).

The following awards were presented at the Big Blue BBQ:

The Practice Player Award: Trey Freeman

Named after every practice player with the most during the year.

The Cal Bowdler Most-Improved Player Award: Ambrose MosleyFrom early October start to the end of the season.

The Mark West Defensive Player of the Year Award: Denzell TaylorDoesn’t Always show up in the box score. Covers for all teammates.

The Paul Webb MR. Monarch Award: Keenan PalmoreThe player that best represents Monarch basketball on the court, inthe classroom and in public.